Rivera ends campaign in 158th District

Leonard Rivera has decided to end his
campaign to win the Republican nomination for the 158th
District State House seat currently held by Chris Ross.

Rivera, a local attorney, announced the
decision on Monday.

“After discussing this with my
family, close friends and supporters, I’ve decided not to seek
election as State Representative in the 158th District,” Rivera
said in a statement. “I believe my candidacy will be a distraction
and take away from the important issues facing the residents of my
district. Because of that, I will return to private life. I
appreciate all of the hard work and dedication my volunteers and
supporters have provided to my campaign.”

Earlier this month, Rivera withdrew his
name from the ballot for the April 26 Primary Election after an
objection was filed in the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania
challenging how Rivera circulated his nominating petitions. Rivera
said at the time that he would continue the campaign for the
Republican nomination as a write-in candidate.

Ross, a longtime incumbent, is planning
on retiring at the end of the current term.

Val DiGiorgio, Chairman of the
Republican Committee of Chester County, issued a statement following
Rivera's decision to end his campaign for State Representative.

“Lenny Rivera is a man of integrity,
and I respect his decision,” DiGiorgio said. “It takes courage to
put the community before personal aspirations. Lenny is a longtime
supporter of Republican causes and a friend of many years.

“The Republican Committee of Chester
County will meet to endorse a new candidate for State Representative
in 158th State House District.”

Susan Rzucidlo is seeking the
Democratic nomination in the 158th District in the Primary
Election.